How to Grow Exotic Orchids

Growing exotic orchids can seem a difficult task, as many species of the beautiful flower can be finicky about their environment. Choosing the right plant for the right area of growth is an important factor when learning to grow exotic orchids.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Exotic orchid
• Potting material
• Environment conducive to healthy growth
• Pebbles or marbles

1. Decide which kind of orchid is right for you. There are epiphytic orchids, which grow on tree trunks and branches, and terrestrials that prefer organic debris to rich soil.

2. Understand that exotic orchids grown indoors must be able to acclimate to light and temperature variations. Catteya orchids prefer a well-lighted area with warm temperatures. Yet, Masdevallia orchids enjoy low light and a slightly cooler climate.

3. Plant your exotic orchid in its mixture of organic matter on a bed of pebbles or marbles to ensure even watering of the roots and to prevent root rot.

4. Water your orchid about once a week. Allow the water to fully dampen the organic growing matter.

5. Fertilize your orchids every month with either a commercial exotic orchid fertilizer with a 30:10:10 ratio or any water-soluble fertilizer with a 20:20:20 ratio.

6. Adjust the humidity in the exotic orchids growing area to between 40 and 80 percent. Consult a nursery regarding special needs of rare species and their requirements for humidity.

Tips & Warnings

• Use river pebbles as a base for the exotic orchid's potting material in a tall clear vase for a natural look.
• Re-pot the exotic orchids about every two years to ensure a healthy base of potting material that may have exhausted its usefulness.
• Do not let pets or children ingest or tamper with orchids as some species can cause allergic reactions.
• Deal with pests and bugs immediately: exotic orchids are very delicate and can succumb to even mild abuse.

Resources

• A wonderful resource for orchid growing.
• Find a wealth of gardening material here.

[cameramaam]

on 5/9/2008 What orchids are 'exotic'?
Living in the deep south, a masdevalia or dracula is exotic to me...if I lived in Nova Scotia, I suppose vandas would be exotic, though they grow like weeds here. Patata, potato...